Page 13 of Playing it Country

OTTO: I love your scowl it really goes with your outfit

EVERETT: (gif of guy snickering)

HAYDEN: That’s a hot angry strut

EVERETT: I can angry strut

HAYDEN: Yes dear

CASE: I just want to point out that you did this to yourself Sorren. I only texted you and you activated the group text.

SORREN: I’ve regretted every minute since.

I snickeras I walk back over to Waylon and Otto and pocket my phone. I can see the girls talking by the beer tent. Hank made good on his promise because he and Isla are nowhere in sight.

“What’s with you and Hannah?” Otto asks, and I shrug.

“Nothing, man. She’s temporary, and I’m lookin’ for something a little different.”

Waylon’s eyebrows shoot up into his Marlee-tousled hairline and then he grins. “Best thing in the world, brother.”

“Don’t get too excited. I’m still dodging Mila, and Ella told me she has a friend she wants me to meet. It’s been a weird few days.”

“Ella from the bakery?”

“Yeah.”

Otto chuckles. “Little matchmaker.”

“It’s only funny coz it’s not you.”

He takes a sip of his beer. “You’re not wrong. I think it’ll be good for you.”

“How about we let me pick my own dates, huh?” I grouse and they just laugh.

“Yeah, because that’s worked out well so far.”

I kick the dirt as Fallon, Marlee, Rhea, and Hannah all come back into our little circle. Looking around, I suddenly feel out of place. Rhea and Hannah are talking animatedly, and suddenly I’m the odd man out.

Old me would have excused himself and gone out looking for a dance partner, but new me has a date with his shower—and his hand.

Fuck.

“Y’all, I think I’m gonna call it. I have to be up early tomorrow.” Otto eyes me skeptically because we work together and have the same schedule.

No one else says anything, and I make it through a round of goodbyes before landing on Hannah. I give her a hug, and just as I’m about to turn, she calls my name.

“Yeah?”

“That’s two favors I plan on collecting, Stud.”

“I have no doubt.” I give her a wink, and the sound of her laughter follows me all the way to my truck.

5

CASE

“Are you sure? I mean I could probably ask—”

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